All the People

If you just want to see the people in our database you can browse them here.

Percy Hornibrook

Australian cricketer with Test matches
Born
July 27th, 1899 126 years ago
Died
1976 50 years ago — 77 years old

A cricketer from Australia who played in the 1920s, primarily as a fast bowler. Participated in 9 Test matches for the Australian national team. Performance included remarkable achievements in domestic cricket, representing teams in First-Class matches. Played a crucial role in contributing to the Australian cricket scene during his active years.

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Percy Kilbride

Actor recognized for 'Ma and Pa Kettle'
Born
July 16th, 1888 137 years ago
Died
December 11th, 1964 61 years ago — 76 years old

An American actor, significant contributions spanned from the late 1930s to the mid-1960s. Obtained recognition primarily for the portrayal of Pa Kettle in the comedic film series centered around the Kettle family. Appeared in multiple films, notably 'Ma and Pa Kettle' and its sequels, which were popular in their time. Utilized a distinct comedic style that contributed to the success of the films, pairing with other actors to bring the family dynamics to life. Earlier work included theatrical performances in vaudeville, showcasing versatility in live performance.

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Percy Lane Oliver

Pioneer of volunteer blood donation
Born
April 11th, 1878 148 years ago
Died
1944 82 years ago — 66 years old

Pioneered the concept of voluntary blood donation in the United Kingdom. Founded the National Blood Transfusion Service in 1946, which established a system for the collection and transfusion of blood to improve medical care following World War II. Advocated for the importance of willing donors, significantly influencing the future of blood donation practices. His efforts facilitated safer blood transfusions and laid the groundwork for modern blood banks.

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Percy Lavon Julian

Chemist and pioneer in medicinal chemistry
Born
April 11th, 1899 127 years ago
Died
April 19th, 1975 51 years ago — 76 years old

This chemist made significant contributions to the field of medicinal chemistry. A trailblazer for African Americans in science, developed methods for synthesizing important medicinal compounds. Achieved success in the pharmaceutical industry, particularly in the production of steroids like cortisone and the development of various treatments for glaucoma and inflammation. Held several academic and corporate positions, promoting advancements in chemistry and education.

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Percy Mayfield

R&B singer-songwriter with 'Hit the Road Jack'
Born
August 12th, 1920 105 years ago
Died
1984 42 years ago — 64 years old

A significant figure in the R&B genre, a singer-songwriter gained recognition for songwriting and performing. Early career started with a blend of gospel and blues influences. Worked with notable musicians during the 1940s and 1950s. His song 'Hit the Road Jack' became iconic, later popularized by Ray Charles. Despite facing challenges related to personal struggles, continued to create and perform, contributing to the legacy of R&B music. Later years included collaborations and performances that highlighted his unique style and lyrical depth.

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Percy Perrin

English cricketer and first-class player
Born
May 26th, 1876 150 years ago
Died
1945 81 years ago — 69 years old

Born in 1876, this individual played cricket primarily for Essex and had a first-class career that spanned from 1897 to 1914. He was a right-handed batsman and a right-arm medium-fast bowler. Over his career, he participated in numerous matches, showcasing his skills in both batting and bowling. His contributions helped shape the early years of the club's competitive stature.

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Percy Qoboza

South African journalist and author
Born
1938 88 years ago
Died
January 17th, 1988 38 years ago — 50 years old

Worked as a prominent journalist and editor in South Africa during the apartheid era. Served as the editor of The World and later The Sunday Post, becoming crucial in exposing social injustices. Wrote extensively about the struggles faced by black South Africans and advocated for democracy and equality. Received numerous awards for journalism, including the prestigious National Press Club's Journalist of the Year award in 1974. Continued to write after his exile and became a significant figure in South Africa’s media landscape until his death.

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Percy Rodriguez

Canadian-American actor and voice artist
Born
June 13th, 1918 107 years ago
Died
2007 19 years ago — 89 years old

Born on June 13, 1918, an actor and voice artist contributed significantly to the entertainment industry. Rodriguez provided the voice for several iconic animated characters and was recognized for his work in film and television. His voice work in 'The Jetsons' as the character of Mr. Spacely highlighted his talent. He also appeared in various live-action shows including 'Mission: Impossible' and 'The Green Hornet', showcasing versatility and skill in performance.

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Percy Shaw

Inventor of the cat's eye
Born
April 15th, 1890 136 years ago
Died
1976 50 years ago — 86 years old

An English businessman developed a reflective road safety device that improved visibility for drivers at night. The device, called the cat's eye, consisted of a pair of reflective lenses mounted in a rubber housing. This invention increased road safety and gained widespread adoption in the UK and beyond. Originally patented in the 1930s, the cat's eye significantly reduced accidents by enhancing lane visibility during low-light conditions. Shaw's company continued to produce cat's eyes for decades.

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Percy Sherwell

Cricketer and tennis player for South Africa
Born
August 17th, 1880 145 years ago
Died
1948 78 years ago — 68 years old

This individual excelled in both cricket and tennis during the early 20th century. Represented South Africa in cricket, earning recognition for performances in Test matches. Participated in tennis at a high level, contributing to the sport's development in the region. Competed in several notable tournaments and maintained a reputation for skill in both fields.

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Percy Sledge

American singer with iconic soul music
Born
November 25th, 1940 85 years ago
Died
April 14th, 2015 11 years ago — 74 years old

An American singer achieved prominence in the 1960s with his emotive voice and soulful ballads. Best recognized for the hit single 'When a Man Loves a Woman,' which topped the charts and became a classic. Sledge's music career was marked by a blend of rhythm and blues, soul, and gospel influences, contributing significantly to the genre's popularity. His music not only captured the hearts of listeners but also influenced future generations of artists. Sledge received a Grammy Hall of Fame award for 'When a Man Loves a Woman' and was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

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Percy Spencer

Physicist and inventor of microwave oven
Born
July 19th, 1894 131 years ago
Died
September 8th, 1970 55 years ago — 76 years old

An American physicist and inventor developed the microwave oven. Spencer worked with radar technology during World War II and while experimenting with microwave radiation, discovered its heating properties. This led to the invention of the microwave oven in 1945, which revolutionized food preparation methods. Spencer founded a company that manufactured these ovens for commercial use. His work in engineering and physics contributed significantly to advancements in cooking technology.

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